Dr. Spanke is an Associate Professor of English at Ball State University. He earned his B.A. in Psychology and English, M.A. in American Studies, and Ph.D. in English Education from Purdue University.

Dr. Spanke has been published in numerous English education and literacy Journals and is active in both the Indiana state and National Council for Teachers of English associations and frequent presenter at national conferences. He is the co-author of From the mouths of babes: Authentic audiences for young, talented writers (2015). Gifted Child Today, 38(3): 177-186.